What are the opening hours?

Monday 9am - 8pm Tuesday 9am - 8pm Wednesday 9am - 8pm Thursday 9am - 8pm Friday 9am - 8pm Saturday 9am - 8pm

Mortgage Approval Group, LLC

Home
United States
Tampa, FL
Mortgage Approval Group, LLC

Directions Website

Tampa Mortgage Broker with over 25 years of experience in providing the best financing options for your home purchase or refinance with five-star service!

To schedule an appointment please visit https://calendly.com/scott-kepler or call (813) 444-8537! * Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)  A mortgage with an interest rate that changes during the life of the loan according to movements in an index rate. Sometimes called AMLs (adjustable mortgage loans) or VRMs (variable-rate mortgages).
* Annual Percentage Rate (APR)  The cost of credit, expressed as a yearly rate including interest, mortgage insurance, and loan origination fees. This allows the buyer to compare loans, however APR should not be confused with the actual note rate.
* Appraisal  A written analysis prepared by a qualified appraiser and estimating the value of a property.
* Appraised Value  An opinion of a property's fair market value, based on an appraiser's knowledge, experience, and analysis of the property.
* Broker  An individual or company that brings borrowers and lenders together for the purpose of loan origination.
* Closing Costs  These are expenses - over and above the price of the property - that are incurred by buyers and sellers when transferring ownership of a property. Closing costs normally include an origination fee, property taxes, charges for title insurance and escrow costs, appraisal fees, etc. Closing costs will vary according to the area country and the lenders used.
* Credit Report  A report detailing an individual's credit history that is prepared by a credit bureau and used by a lender to determine a loan applicant's creditworthiness.
* Credit Risk Score  A credit score measures a consumer's credit risk relative to the rest of the U.S. population, based on the individual's credit usage history. The credit score most widely used by lenders is the FICO® score, developed by Fair, Issac and Company. This 3-digit number, ranging from 300 to 850, is calculated by a mathematical equation that evaluates many types of information that are on your credit report. Higher FICO® scores represents lower credit risks, which typically equate to better loan terms. In general, credit scores are critical in the mortgage loan underwriting process.
* Down Payment  Part of the purchase price of a property that is paid in cash and not financed with a mortgage.
* Equity  The amount of financial interest in a property. Equity is the difference between the fair market value of the property and the amount still owed on the mortgage.
* Escrow  An item of value, money, or documents deposited with a third party to be delivered upon the fulfillment of a condition. For example, the deposit of funds or documents into an escrow account to be disbursed upon the closing of a sale of real estate.
* Fannie Mae  A congressionally chartered, shareholder-owned company that is the nation's largest supplier of home mortgage funds.
* FHA Mortgage  A mortgage that is insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Also known as a government mortgage.
* FICO Score  FICO® scores are the most widely used credit score in U.S. mortgage loan underwriting. Higher FICO® scores represent lower credit risks, which typically equate to better loan terms.
* Fixed-Rate Mortgage (FRM)  A mortgage interest that are fixed throughout the entire term of the loan.
* HUD-1 statement  A document that provides an itemized listing of the funds that are payable at closing. Items that appear on the statement include real estate commissions, loan fees, points, and initial escrow amounts. Each item on the statement is represented by a separate number within a standardized numbering system. The totals at the bottom of the HUD-1 statement define the seller's net proceeds and the buyer's net payment at closing.
* Index  The index is the measure of interest rate changes a lender uses to decide the amount an interest rate on an ARM will change over time.The index is generally a published number or percentage, such as the average interest rate or yield on Treasury bills. Some index rates tend to be higher than others and some more volatile.
* Initial Interest Rate  This refers to the original interest rate of the mortgage at the time of closing. This rate changes for an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). It's also known as "start rate" or "teaser."
* Line of Credit  An agreement by a commercial bank or other financial institution to extend credit up to a certain amount for a certain time.
* Monthly Fixed Installment  That portion of the total monthly payment that is applied toward principal and interest. When a mortgage negatively amortizes, the monthly fixed installment does not include any amount for principal reduction and doesn't cover all of the interest. The loan balance therefore increases instead of decreasing.
* Mortgage  A legal document that pledges a property to the lender as security for payment of a debt.
* Mortgage Banker  A company that originates mortgages exclusively for resale in the secondary mortgage market.
* Mortgage Broker  An individual or company that brings borrowers and lenders together for the purpose of loan origination.
* Mortgage Insurance  A contract that insures the lender against loss caused by a mortgagor's default on a government mortgage or conventional mortgage. Mortgage insurance can be issued by a private company or by a government agency.
* Pre-Approval  The process of determining how much money you will be eligible to borrow before you apply for a loan.
* Principal Balance  The outstanding balance of principal on a mortgage not including interest or any other charges.
* Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance (PITI)  The four components of a monthly mortgage payment. Principal refers to the part of the monthly payment that reduces the remaining balance of the mortgage. Interest is the fee charged for borrowing money. Taxes and insurance refer to the monthly cost of property taxes and homeowners insurance, whether these amounts that are paid into an escrow account each month or not.
* Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)  Mortgage insurance provided by a private mortgage insurance company to protect lenders against loss if a borrower defaults. Most lenders generally require MI for a loan with a loan-to-value (LTV) percentage in excess of 80 percent.
* Rate Lock  A commitment issued by a lender to a borrower or other mortgage originator guaranteeing a specified interest rate and lender costs for a specified period of time.
* Real Estate Agent  A person licensed to negotiate and transact the sale of real estate on behalf of the property owner.
* Refinance  Paying off one loan with the proceeds from a new loan using the same property as security.
* Underwriting  The process of evaluating a loan application to determine the risk involved for the lender. Underwriting involves an analysis of the borrower's creditworthiness and the quality of the property itself.
* VA Mortgage  A mortgage that is guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Also known as a government mortgage.
* "Wrap Around" Mortgage  A mortgage that includes the remaining balance on an existing first mortgage plus an additional amount requested by the mortgagor. Full payments on both mortgages are made to the "Wrap Around" mortgagee, who then forwards the payments on the first mortgage to the first mortgagee. These mortgages may not be allowed by the first mortgage holder, and if discovered, could be subject to a demand for full payment. Thank you for contacing a Tampa, Florida mortgage loan broker!

10/31/2026

Your buyer's inspection just revealed a Federal Pacific electrical panel. Now what?

Most Florida homebuyers don't realize that Federal Pacific and Zinsco panels are documented fire hazards—and most insurance carriers won't touch them. That's typically $3,000 to $6,000 in replacement costs that suddenly becomes a negotiating point (or a deal-killer).

But electrical panels are just one of six major red flags we see in Florida deals:

• Roof age over 15 years—insurance coverage issues
• Polybutylene plumbing from the 80s/90s—failure risk
• Moisture intrusion and mold—humidity is relentless here
• HVAC systems over 12 years old—end-of-life in Florida's climate
• Foundation concerns—potential sinkhole risk
• Electrical hazards—insurance refusal

Here's the reality: a thorough inspection gives your buyer real leverage. These findings aren't automatic deal-killers—they're negotiating tools. Your buyer can ask for repairs, credits, or walk away informed.

Skip the inspection contingency? Your buyer owns every problem that comes after.

Realtors and loan officers: Have you seen inspection findings change a deal's outcome? Share your experience in the comments.

10/30/2026

Your credit score isn't everything anymore—and that's good news for a lot of buyers.

In November 2025, Fannie Mae removed its 620 minimum credit score requirement for conventional mortgages. Instead of using a hard cutoff, lenders can now evaluate your complete financial profile.

What does that mean in real life?

If your credit took a hit from medical bills, a job loss, or other circumstances, lenders can now look at the bigger picture: your income, your savings, how consistently you pay your bills, and your overall financial stability.

It's not a guarantee—lenders still evaluate risk and price accordingly. But it opens doors that were previously closed.

For first-time buyers with limited credit history, or homeowners who've faced financial challenges, this change can make a real difference.

The key is showing lenders you're financially solid overall, not just hoping your score is high enough.

Have a buyer who was told no because of credit? Send me a message and let's take another look.

Mortgage Approval Group, LLC
Scott Kepler | NMLS #833792
813-444-8537

10/29/2026

Realtors, condo deals are stalling for a reason most agents don't see coming.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac updated condo financing guidelines in 2026, and it's affecting deals right now. The change: stricter HOA reserve requirements and mandatory project reviews.

Here's what it means:

A condo building that qualified for conventional financing last year may not qualify today. If the HOA doesn't have 15% reserves or the building fails the project review, your buyers lose conventional financing eligibility. That means higher down payments and higher rates—even if the buyer is perfectly qualified.

This is not a buyer credit issue. This is a building eligibility issue.

The fix: Ask the right questions before the offer goes in. Know the HOA reserve status, project review status, and insurance details. Catch it early, and you save the deal. Miss it, and you're explaining a financing denial weeks into escrow.

Mortgage Approval Group can help review condo scenarios before they become problems.

Have you had a condo deal stall or fall apart because of HOA issues? Comment your story—we want to hear it.

Mortgage Approval Group, LLC | Scott Kepler | NMLS #833792 | 813-444-8537

10/28/2026

Some Florida homeowners use a HELOC or home equity loan to consolidate higher-interest debt into a single home equity payment.

The comparison can be favorable — but it's important to look at the full picture: total cost over time, repayment terms, and the fact that home equity financing is secured by your property.

We don't push products. We help you compare what's available from multiple lenders and decide whether it makes sense for your situation. If it doesn't, we'll tell you that.

No obligation. Just a clear look at your options.

📍 Mortgage Approval Group, LLC | Company NMLS # 1742769 | 813-444-8537
This is not a commitment to lend. Home equity financing is secured by your property.

https://mortgageapprovalgroup.com/lp/heloc-home-equity?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_campaign=cmp_NdLa-_ImHNe0RaGFKJxCok4kDZDj7Aybh0x1718VHMc&utm_content=act_yKFhBWwVlc0NzVkw8zFfrB6kqC6J-G4qm5SCkvXbbX8&utm_term=none

Review My Home Equity Options

10/27/2026

The market changed. Your inspection strategy should too.

If you're a buyer who was told to waive your home inspection to make your offer competitive, that advice may be outdated.

In 2021-2023, when inventory was tight and multiple offers were the norm, some buyers felt forced to waive inspections just to stay in the game. But today's market is different. Inventory is up, rates are stable, and sellers can't demand inspection waivers anymore.

Here's why this matters: A home inspection is your legal protection. It's the difference between discovering a $40,000 roof problem before closing and discovering it after you own the house.

If you waive the inspection, you own every problem—no matter what it costs.

And if you're using an FHA, VA, or USDA loan, you can't waive the inspection anyway. These programs require it.

At Mortgage Approval Group, we help buyers understand what they can negotiate and what protections matter most. An inspection contingency is one of those protections.

Comment INSPECT if you want to review your offer strategy, or call us at 813-444-8537.

Mortgage Approval Group, LLC | Scott Kepler | NMLS #833792 | 813-444-8537

10/25/2026

Amendment 3 could save homeowners thousands in taxes—but it might make your dream home $30,000-$50,000 more expensive. Here's what buyers need to know before November 3.

If Amendment 3 passes on November 3, the homestead exemption would increase from $50,000 to $250,000 by 2028. For existing homeowners, that's significant tax relief.

But the flip side matters too. A Realtor.com study suggests this could trigger a 7-9% increase in home values statewide. That's a real affordability concern for buyers trying to enter the market.

The same amendment that helps current homeowners could make it harder for first-time buyers and those without equity to compete.

Both perspectives are valid. Homeowners benefit from tax relief. Buyers face higher prices. The question is: What matters most to you?

Are you voting YES or NO on Amendment 3? Comment your reason—we want to hear from both buyers and homeowners.

Mortgage Approval Group, LLC | Scott Kepler | NMLS #833792 | 813-444-8537

10/25/2026

Thinking about a kitchen remodel, a bathroom update, or adding outdoor living space to your Florida home?

If you've built equity, a HELOC or fixed-rate second mortgage may be a way to fund the project without refinancing your existing first mortgage.

A HELOC works well for projects where costs come in stages — you draw what you need as the work progresses. A home equity loan gives you a lump sum upfront with a fixed payment schedule.

Either way, your first mortgage stays in place.

We work with multiple Florida lenders and can help you compare options at no obligation.

📍 Mortgage Approval Group, LLC | Company NMLS # 1742769 | 813-444-8537
This is not a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval and property qualification.

https://mortgageapprovalgroup.com/lp/heloc-home-equity?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_campaign=cmp_NdLa-_ImHNe0RaGFKJxCok4kDZDj7Aybh0x1718VHMc&utm_content=act_zfEHFiMRAs_f6PXRUJ_WCN7mXdqc2S8s5JdOMGHW_Q4&utm_term=none

Review My Home Equity Options

10/24/2026

Florida homeowners, there's something on the November 3rd ballot that could directly lower your mortgage payment.

Amendment 3 would increase the homestead exemption for property taxes—from $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027, and $250,000 in 2028. For homeowners paying taxes through their mortgage escrow account, this means a lower monthly payment.

The numbers: At the statewide average millage rate, homeowners could save approximately $1,000 to $2,000 annually starting in 2027. In high-tax counties like Miami-Dade, Broward, and Hillsborough, the savings could be even higher.

Important details:
- This applies only to homeowners paying property taxes through escrow
- School property taxes are not affected by Amendment 3
- Savings vary by county and millage rate
- Subject to voter approval on November 3, 2026

Before you vote, it's worth understanding how this could affect your mortgage payment and your overall financial picture.

Want to know what this could mean for your specific situation? Reach out and we'll run the numbers.

Comment AMENDMENT if you want to know exactly how much you could save on your mortgage payment if Amendment 3 passes.

Mortgage Approval Group, LLC
Scott Kepler | NMLS #833792
813-444-8537

10/22/2026

Your credit score might be higher than you think.

Here's what most homebuyers don't realize: Mortgage lenders now have a choice.

For decades, they only used FICO. But in 2026, VantageScore 4.0 entered the picture. And it changes the game for some borrowers.

VantageScore 4.0 can qualify people FICO can't. It considers rent payments, utility bills, and other alternative data that FICO doesn't look at.

What does that mean for you?

If you were denied based on FICO, you might qualify with VantageScore 4.0. If you got a higher rate, you might get better terms. If you're on the borderline, one model might paint a much better picture than the other.

The key is asking your lender which model they're using—and whether they can compare both.

At Mortgage Approval Group, we review both options when they're available. Because sometimes the difference between a yes and a no is just the scoring model.

Comment SCORE if you want to know whether this could help your situation.

Mortgage Approval Group, LLC | Scott Kepler | NMLS #833792 | 813-444-8537

10/22/2026

If you locked in a favorable rate on your first mortgage, a cash-out refinance means replacing that loan — at today's rate, on your full balance.

For many Florida homeowners, that trade-off doesn't make sense.

A HELOC or fixed-rate second mortgage is a different path. It sits behind your existing first mortgage without replacing it. Your original rate stays in place.

If you've built equity and want to access it without refinancing, we can help you compare what's available from multiple Florida lenders — at no obligation.

📍 Mortgage Approval Group, LLC | Company NMLS # 1742769 | Scott Kepler NMLS # 833792 | 813-444-8537
This is not a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval and property qualification.

https://mortgageapprovalgroup.com/lp/heloc-home-equity?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_campaign=cmp_NdLa-_ImHNe0RaGFKJxCok4kDZDj7Aybh0x1718VHMc&utm_content=act_SKnFyegAmb2iZG6EZIODIRvepoqux118QzrFN_gwU0k&utm_term=none

Review My Home Equity Options

Address

2918 Busch Lake Boulevard, Suite A
Tampa, FL
33614

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 8pm
Tuesday	9am - 8pm
Wednesday	9am - 8pm
Thursday	9am - 8pm
Friday	9am - 8pm
Saturday	9am - 8pm

Website

http://www.mortgageapprovalgroup.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Mortgage Approval Group, LLC posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.